[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 2 (Tuesday, January 12, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E7]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE NEBRASKA FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM AND EDUCATION CENTER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ADRIAN SMITH

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 12, 2010

  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. I rise to honor the Nebraska Firefighters 
Museum and Education Center in Kearney, Nebraska. In addition, I also 
want to thank Linsay Schluntz and Wayne Olson for their energy, 
dedication and hard work in making the museum a reality.
  The museum covers Nebraska's firefighting history from 1856 to the 
present and its exhibits feature restored fire trucks, uniforms, 
breathing equipment, fire extinguishers and other various firefighting 
implements.
  Additionally, I'm proud to note a portion of the museum is dedicated 
to fire prevention education and features interactive exhibits targeted 
to school-age children.
  Opened on August 14, 2009, the museum has seen more than 3000 
visitors with many more expected to tour the facilities in the coming 
months. Later this year, construction will begin on a memorial garden 
featuring several granite tablets with the engraved names of Nebraska 
firefighters who have dedicated their lives and safety to protecting 
their communities.
  It has been a great honor of mine to work with Nebraska's 
firefighters and other emergency personnel. The Nebraska Firefighters 
Museum is a reminder of the sacrifices and dedication these brave men 
and women make to our state.

                          ____________________